Computer Networks & Security (Foundation Entry)

We aim to introduce you to a range of software development concepts including, problem analysis, specification, design, implementation, testing, and debugging, and also develop your confidence in applying essential programming skills.

This module uses security and forensic investigation to introduce computer technology. You will improve awareness of security threats and how to deal with them. It provides an overview of modern hardware and operating systems. You will examine threats to PC security and basic countermeasures, and investigate features of an IT system.

This module aims to encourage you to build an inquisitive and active approach to problem-solving with an emphasis on IT-related problems. You will develop confidence in the representation, interpretation and manipulation of information in different formats.

This module aims to equip you with a set of skills, knowledge, and personal attributes that ensure you are more likely to be successful in your chosen route of academic study. You will develop the ability to understand what and how you are learning, and to review, plan and take responsibility for your learning.

This module will improve your academic writing skills and build your confidence in written work. You'll be introduced to a variety of writing styles and develop your verbal and visual communication skills to build your confidence. You'll also be introduced to a variety of communication methods.

This module is designed to help you develop and reinforce basic mathematical skills needed for study in science, engineering, and computing subjects. Emphasis will be placed on building confidence and competence in a range of mathematical skills that are used in real-world problems.

This module aims to provide a learning environment emphasising on discovery and teamwork. You'll learn an overview of key practical aspects of computing. You will also begin the development of problem-solving skills relevant to computing professionals. The module aims to develop skills in usability and interface design and evaluation. 

Networks are a key part of most computer systems. This module will introduce you to the fundamentals of networking and networked systems. You'll develop the understanding you need to investigate relevant computer network standards and protocols. 

This module will develop your ability to analyse a simple problem with a view to implementing a software solution. You will be provided with core skills in computer programming and debugging necessary to implement a readable and maintainable solution to a given problem. You will develop your software design skills and you'll be introduced to advanced programming techniques in preparation for study of an advanced programming module.

In this module you'll explore the fundamentals of computer architecture and operating systems, exploring the nature and consequences of security threats and data breaches, as well as countermeasures. You'll examine the legal, ethical and privacy issues associated with collected data and discuss issues arising with emerging technologies such as smart cities, smart vehicles, the Internet of Things (IoT) and online shopping.

Within an interactive and stimulating learning environment, you will work in teams to discuss and explore a variety of systems. This will develop an in-depth understanding and the practicalities of database design and implementation which you can add to your programming skillset.

On this module you'll develop an awareness of modern web technologies and the future scope of the web. You'll explore a range of security concerns when deploying web-based applications. You'll develop an understanding of the structure of different web technologies and you'll investigate the contexts in which web technologies are developed and applied.

This module develops project leadership skills required by computer practitioners. The module explores working in an Agile way on a course-specific group project. You will reinforce your understanding of social, professional, ethical and legal aspects of Computing. The module will prepare you for your final year project by introducing teamwork, project planning and investigation skills.

This module will provide you with a thorough understanding of how a basic network functions. You will have the opportunity to design, build and test router based Local Area Networks. Material related to Course 1 and 2 of the Cisco CCNA Network Academy qualification is included.

This module will introduce you to information security, risk management and assessment standards. You will learn to select and use applicable standards and methods for information security and risk management. You will also compare and evaluate alternative information security management, risk assessment, and security assurance methods. You'll design and develop a security assurance, governance and risk management strategy considering and following the stakeholders’ requirements.

This module will introduce you to IT systems management practices and principles. You'll start learning the basics of single operating systems and later move onto large-scale systems.

The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of the technologies underpinning the internet of things and how they communicate. You'll develop the skills necessary to design, develop, test and evaluate secure applications created within the scope of the Internet of Things. You'll also explore the legal, ethical and social user experiences relating to the IOT.

On this module you will examine a range of vulnerabilities and attacks on computer systems and networks. You'll instil a vigilant attitude towards potential system weaknesses and develop an understanding of methods for protecting communication and computer systems. You will be encouraged to take a systematic approach to computer security and you'll integrate your skills by tackling the complex problem of system security.

This module focuses on mobile and wireless network systems, covering both the theory and practice of their use. The module will provide you with hands-on experience in the set-up, configuration and testing of Wireless Network. You'll develop an understanding of how wireless and mobile technologies can be applied in both business and home environments. 

On this module you will research, study and produce a report based on the investigation of a problem and the development of a solution. This project will be the culmination of the your study and will draw on the material and skills developed during the course.

This module extends and reinforces previously learnt knowledge from your other academic modules. You will gain the necessary skills to effectively use switches and configure routers in a multiprotocol network environment.

This module aims to raise your awareness of the need for penetration testing, providing you with the experience of testing a network’s security both internally and externally. You'll develop an understanding of the legal and ethical issues concerning penetration testing and be encouraged to expand your knowledge about network security from published research materials and to conduct independent investigations into network security related areas.

This module aims to introduce the fundamental concept of Cloud storage and computing services. In addition, the module will cover different models and architecture of Cloud services, as well as the security, privacy and accountability problems in this context.

This module aims to introduce advanced theories and methodologies in cyber defence and security that enable what is achievable in that regard through the use of security technologies, big data architectures and security policies in IT systems.